Emergent versus urgent ERCP in acute cholangitis: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Background and Aims Acute cholangitis is characterized by abdominal pain, fever, and jaundice. Most patients respond to medical management with intravenous hydration and antibiotics. About 20% to 30% require biliary drainage, and ERCP is the procedure of choice. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate the impact of emergent biliary drainage on patient outcomes. Methods A comprehensive literature review was conducted by...